Pennsylvania's Paradise region sits within Lancaster County at approximately 430 feet elevation, where rolling farmland meets the eastern edge of the Appalachian foothills. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winter nights often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April through October, with a handful remaining open year-round for cold-weather camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5-15 minute drives from most Paradise-area campgrounds lead to well-stocked fishing spots. At French Creek State Park Campground, campers can access two lakes with diverse fish species. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes a reviewer.
Explore Amish culture: Free tours available from select campgrounds. At Country Acres Campground, visitors report unique cultural immersion opportunities. One camper noted, "Backed up to beautiful working Amish farm. Serene and peaceful the only words that come to mind." Many sites arrange complimentary Amish farmland tours on weekends.
Hiking trails: Multiple difficulty levels available throughout the region. Tucquan Park features "a wonderful hiking trail" according to visitors, while French Creek maintains an extensive trail system. A reviewer mentions, "There are a lot of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews for Paradise-area glamping sites. Old Mill Stream Campground receives high marks for maintenance. "The bath house was just remodeled so it's excellent! Good price!" shared one camper. Another mentioned, "Some of the cleanest camp bathrooms and showers I have seen."
Water recreation options: Beyond swimming pools. Several glamping destinations near Paradise offer creek and lake access. At Thousand Trails Circle M, campers enjoy river activities: "The campground sits in the center of a horseshoe curve of the river, bring tubes and kayaks! We didn't know but went and bought a tube and spent the day on the river!"
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening prime times. Many Paradise glamping sites border natural areas with wildlife viewing opportunities. Lake-In-Wood campers report frequent deer sightings at dusk, while Country Acres' farm-adjacent sites offer domestic animal observation. "We stayed in one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy," shared one visitor.
What you should know
Weekend availability: Books 3-4 months in advance for summer stays at most Paradise glamping sites. Holiday weekends often fill by January. Weekday availability remains better, with some sites offering Sunday-Thursday discounts up to 20%.
Weather considerations: Thunderstorms common in summer months. A visitor to Lake-In-Wood Campground recalls, "Our first night there a storm came through that was so bad I was worried a tree would fall on a trailer." Pack adequate rain gear and tarps if tent camping.
Noise factors: Consider site location carefully. Some campgrounds near Paradise experience external noise. Old Mill Stream Campground receives mixed reviews regarding odors from nearby farms. One reviewer notes, "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot. The smell was not present the first day or so we were there and we enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon, but when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate campgrounds: Research activities by age group. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is lauded for younger children but may not engage teens. "We had stayed in this campground about 5 years ago and we loved it. We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds and a 12 year old friend. The kids were bored," shared one visitor, suggesting the amenities better suit younger children.
Water features: Central to family enjoyment. Multiple Paradise-area glamping sites feature water recreation. One Jellystone visitor noted, "The water park was GREAT for kids and adults. Super clean. Lots to do. Well worth a week."
Budget-friendly options: County parks offer savings. For families willing to forgo luxury glamping, Hibernia County Park provides more affordable options. "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," reports a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Request detailed site maps when booking Paradise-area RV sites. Many campgrounds have varied terrain. At Lancaster-New Holland KOA, a reviewer advises, "We stayed in site#106 which was level, covered in clean gravel, had a paver patio with table and chairs, and a nice fire ring with more chairs."
Utility hookup variations: Confirm specific amenities available at your site. Not all Paradise glamping sites provide full hookups. One visitor to French Creek noted, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home."
Maneuverability considerations: Narrow access roads at some locations. Lake-In-Wood presents challenges for larger rigs. "The roads were very tight and you really had to watch how you drove through because of the trees," warns a reviewer. Call ahead if your RV exceeds 30 feet to confirm access.
